Senior Citizens Say Pope’s Visit Is Losing Bet, Head for Casinos

NEWARK, N.J. — Forgive them, Pope John Paul II.

It’s just that, well, the plans were made months in advance. And the slot machines could be hot.

Hours before the Pope arrived Wednesday at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 80 senior citizens boarded buses outside the parish hall to go to Atlantic City casinos.

“It’s ironic,” acknowledged Sebastian DeFroscia, president of the Sacred Heart September Club, which sponsored the $70 overnight trip.

Some parishioners admitted feeling a twinge of guilt about the timing. “I’m sorry this happened the same day. It’s one of those things,” said Frank Pennella, 77.

Others were more pragmatic. After all, the Pope’s evening service at the cathedral was by invitation only.

“No matter how close or how far away you live, you’ll never be able to get a glimpse of him unless you have a ticket, and even then it’s not a sure thing,” said Jean Demidio, 60.

And what might the Pope say?

“You’re a sinner,” Pennella said. “We all sin sometimes. But we’re forgiven, right?”